Ark Bar Beach ResortvsThe Library
Both properties are rated highly by expert writers. On balance, The Library is the choice of most reviewers compared to Ark Bar Beach Resort. The Library comes in at #4 in Koh Samui with endorsements from 12 sources including Lonely Planet, Jetsetter and Condé Nast Traveler.
Ark Bar Beach Resort
159/89 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach, Bophut, Chaweng, Koh Samui 84320, Thailand
From $45/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
- Restaurant
- Pool
Oyster
Mid-Range
"Ark Bar Beach Resort is a mid-range hotel set along a scenic white-sand beach in the heart of downtown Chaweng's party district." Full review
Frommer's
"Its two-story hotel rooms are squeezed into a narrow strip of gardens leading to the beach right in the heart of Chaweng, but they’re all equipped with air-con, minibar, and balconies" Full review
Lonely Planet
"You’ll find two of every party animal at clean and well-tended 328-room Ark Bar – frat boys, chilled-out hippies, teenagers, 40-somethings and so on." Full review
The Library Show All Reviews
14/1 Moo 2, Chaweng, Bophut, Ko Samui 84320, Thailand
From $157/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
Concierge
"The bloodred-tiled pool is the dramatic centerpiece, with huge pillows and daybeds beside it. High white walls and black-lacquer floors provide museumlike backdrops for Thai antiques."
Fodor's
"This place is so fun that it's worth a visit for its amusingly hip decor—check out the white figures reading books on the lawn, inviting you to lounge as well." Full review
Jetsetter
"A high-design hideaway dotted with artwork and sculptures on one of Koh Samui's best beaches." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"In crowded Chaweng Beach, this 26-room hotel’s high style attracts a stream of beachcombers (prepare to show your key to the hotel gatekeeper)." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The minimalist white rooms are striking and the restaurant called The Page is excellent."
Star Service
"Even from the airplane, this resort stands out on Koh Samui's crowded Chaweng Beach, thanks to its distinct and dramatic red-tile swimming pool." Full review
Rough Guide
"High-concept design hotel, based around a library of books, DVDs and CDs with computer terminals."
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This place is too cool for school, which is ironic since it's called 'The Library'. The entire resort is a sparkling white mirage accented with black trimming and slatted curtains." Full review
Oyster
Luxury
"With its superb design and striking red-colored swimming pool, The Library is arguably the hippest luxury beachfront resort in Koh Samui." Full review
Mr & Mrs Smith
"There’s nothing like relaxing on a beautiful beach with a good book, and the luxurious, modern The Library hotel set along Koh Samui’s famous Chaweng Beach takes this notion to the next level." Full review